A simulation-based evaluation of BRT systems in over-crowded travel corridors: a case study of Cairo, Egypt

Mohamed, M.; Elmitiny, N.; Talaat, Hala · 2022 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.1186/s44147-022-00088-2

archive: archived pipeline: cataloged verified

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Summary

This study evaluates the operational performance of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems in overcrowded travel corridors, addressing the critical challenge of managing conflicts between BRT vehicles, general traffic, and pedestrians. The research is motivated by the severe congestion in the Greater Cairo Region, where traffic delays account for a significant portion of direct congestion costs. Using King Faisal Street in Giza, Egypt, as a case study, the authors aim to determine which conflict resolution strategies effectively improve traffic operations without exacerbating delays for other road users. The researchers developed a microsimulation model using PTV VISSIM, calibrated with field-collected traffic data to ensure realism. Calibration involved adjusting parameters such as mean following headway and driver reaction time, validated through statistical tests including the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and error metrics like Mean Absolute Percent Error (6%). Four BRT scenarios were simulated, varying in how they handled vehicle/BRT conflicts at U-turns and vehicle/passenger conflicts at stations. Scenario 1 used at-grade traffic signals for all conflicts. Scenario 2 reduced signalized U-turns and used speed bumps or pedestrian signals for crossings. Scenarios 3 and 4 employed grade separation (BRT bridges) for U-turns, differing only in pedestrian crossing methods: Scenario 3 used at-grade pedestrian signals, while Scenario 4 used pedestrian bridges. The results demonstrated that conflict treatment methodology significantly impacts corridor performance. Scenarios relying on at-grade traffic signals (Scenarios 1–3) caused substantial delays for general traffic, with overall corridor travel times increasing by 80%, 68%, and 23%, respectively, compared to the current case. These signals also impeded network entry, allowing only 65–75% of estimated demand to enter the corridor. In contrast, Scenario 4, which utilized complete grade separation for both vehicles and pedestrians, reduced overall travel time by 18% and accommodated 16% more traffic volume than the original demand. Level of Service (LOS) for travel lanes improved from F to E or D in Scenario 4, whereas it remained at F or E in other scenarios. BRT lane LOS ranged from E in Scenario 1 to B in Scenario 4. The study concludes that grade separation is the recommended conflict resolution approach for BRT systems in overcrowded corridors. The findings highlight that while BRT can improve public transport efficiency, the use of traffic signals to manage conflicts in high-demand areas creates excessive delays that negate the system’s benefits. Complete physical separation of BRT lanes and pedestrian crossings from general traffic is essential to achieve successful operations and improve overall corridor performance.

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• traffic density